I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Improving on perfection is near impossible (trust me, I know… yup, you can all laugh now). No, but seriously. Kia’s Sorento is its second bestselling product. That’s kind of a big deal in the auto world, and a big deal internally for Kia. To change a product that’s already doing so well is a bit of a daunting task for the engineers and designers. Here they are, tasked with changing something that’s already good the way it is. What to do?
Well, for 2016, Kia managed to do just that: improve on the perfection that was the Sorento. They brought it into modern-day light, loaded it with techy-y bits and made it look great to boot.
Here then are the best bits and bobs about the 2016 edition of the Korean CUV:
0-100 score: 79%
No. 3
It goes both ways
Now before you all start thinking the wrong thing, I mean it can either be an entry-level utility vehicle and a well appointed luxurious people and gear carrier. How is that possible? Well, the 2016 Kia Sorento competes with the likes of the RAV4 (in LX trim), but can also go head-to-head with the big boys like the Toyota Highlander, and Hyundai Santa Fe XL.
What’s nice about that is that the double-play isn’t a confusion thing (read: Honda Crosstour), it can legitimately compete in both categories, and does it well. With either 5- or 7-person seating available, the 2016 Kia Sorento sports its split personality successfully.
No. 2
It’s got the look
Looks are a huge part of success in the automotive world. We can all pretend we aren’t materialistic when it comes to purchasing practical things, but that would be an outright lie. If it looks good, we’re more likely to be attracted to it. That’s human nature.
So, when Kia revamped the exterior look of the 2016 Sorento, they did so with curb appeal in mind. With optional LED fog lights, as well as three wheel sizes to choose from (17”, 18” and 19”), as well as an updated front fascia that sports Kia’s latest grille design, it’s easy to see how Kia’s walked away with over 50 design awards over the past five years. They know how to grab attention on the road, and the new model does just that.
No. 1
New power source
Everyone loves a new engine choice, and the introduction of the Optima’s 2.0L turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder mill into the 2016 Kia Sorento. With 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, the engine is mapped a little differently in the Sorento to account for more torque (so horsepower is lower than in the Optima). However, that drop in power means the 2016 Sorento can tow up to 3,500lbs. We’ll take the power drop if it means more capabilities.
In all, the 2016 Kia Sorento is a great new CUV from the Korean automaker. They should be proud that they did the outgoing model justice by revamping just enough to make it new without totally changing the overall demeanor of a vehicle the general public has come to know and love.
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